The Genomic Blueprint of a Global Invader
A new multi-omics study reveals how the invasive sea squirt Molgula manhattensis adapts to diverse environments, with significant implications for predicting future invasion risks under climate change. Researchers sequenced the genomes and methylomes of populations along the Chinese coastline, uncovering strong north-south divergence linked to local conditions. They found that both genetic and epigenetic variations contribute to adaptation, but these layers of information are only partially coupled, suggesting a complex, dual-track strategy for resilience. Predictive modeling indicates southern populations have lower genomic and epigenomic “offsets,” meaning they may be pre-adapted and pose a higher future invasion risk as climates shift.
Why it might matter to you: This research directly advances the field of invasion biology by providing a mechanistic framework to forecast which populations are most likely to become problematic. For professionals focused on conservation biology and ecosystem management, it underscores the necessity of incorporating both genetic and epigenetic data into risk assessment models. This approach could lead to more targeted and effective strategies for monitoring and controlling invasive species, a critical component of maintaining global biodiversity and ecosystem services.
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